Last season, the Detroit Tigers did what every heartbroken fan prayed for, for many years. They finally broke the playoff curse which is older than all these TikTok trends. And now with the weight lifted off, Manager A.J. Hinch is not handing out any participation trophies. No, sir! He is sending a loud and clear message for the assembled 2025 lineup – less like a pep talk and more like a “Step up or step aside” ultimatum.
2024 was very emotional for the Tigers’ fans because Detroit made it to the postseason after a decade of waiting. Still, it’s not a chilling time. Since being the Tigers’ coach from 2021, A.J. Hinch made significant strides in the league but was never able to reach the playoffs. And now, he seems to be even more headstrong because even after making it to the playoffs, they lost to the Guardians in the ALDS.
A.J. Hinch is giving the harsh truth about their present lineup. He said on MLB Network Radio, “My message will be very clear to this group that we’re back at the bottom of the mountain, needing to climb a little bit more. Now we were equipped to do it. We just proved to ourselves, that we want to play off series against the Astros who have been a mainstay in the October in the last decade.”
“We’re back at the bottom of the mountain, we need to climb a little bit more.”
Tigers Manager A.J. Hinch reveals his Spring Training message to the 2025 team. @tigers | #RepDetroit
https://t.co/fGPbvbj8w4 pic.twitter.com/czIg81TE9W
— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) February 9, 2025
There’s no hiding the fact that he is happy with Detroit’s last season’s performance and defeating the Astros. Well, they deserve to be. But with the new season just weeks away, it is time to grind. This time the goal is to reach the next spot in the postseason, and their roster has it. It is a fresh start for the team, and they can prove their worth again. A.J. Hinch mentioned that he is proud of his players for playing the way they did, but now it is time to focus on the future.
Of course, this season will hold new tests for the Detroit Tigers, and the leader of the pack is ready to lead them to glory.
From breakthrough to build-up: How the Detroit Tigers’ 2024 offseason moves set the stage for 2025
The Detroit Tigers continued their momentum post-playoff appearance by remaining active in the 2024 offseason. They surprised everyone by resigning right-hander Jack Flaherty for a two-year $35 million contract with a first-year opt-out clause. The Los Angeles Dodgers traded Flaherty to Detroit in the middle of the season, and he returned with a record of 13-7 and a 3.17 ERA.
Additionally, the Tigers strengthened their infield through the one-year $15 million contract with second baseman Gleyber Torres. The deal put Colt Keith in first base. So, the team can expect improved depth from the lineup due to Torres’ dependable offensive contributions.
More veteran starter Alex Cobb came to the pitching staff after the Detroit Tigers secured him on a one-year agreement worth $15 million. Cobb brings both seasoned leadership and pitching experience which will help the rotation by mentoring younger players.
Clearly, the Detroit Tigers aren’t here to be a one-hit wonder or just “that team that broke the curse.” Nope — they’re building something real. With a smart mix of seasoned stars and hungry young talent, Detroit is gearing up to turn that playoff blip into a full-blown postseason saga.
Their offseason moves scream one thing: Mediocrity isn’t an option. The mission? Build a winning culture and prove that 2024 wasn’t just luck — it was just the beginning.
What are YOU speculating for the Detroit Tigers? The comment section is open for you.
The post Tigers Coach Sends “Clear Message” to 2025 Detroit Lineup After Breaking Decade-Long Playoff Curse appeared first on EssentiallySports.
